Doctor of Psychology (PsyD)
Build Your Future at Montclair
Prepare to support the academic, behavioral and emotional success of children and adolescents through evidence-based assessment, intervention and consultation.
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Ready to help children and adolescents succeed in school and beyond? Explore Montclair State University's Doctor of School Psychology (PsyD) program, where doctoral-level coursework, supervised field experiences and applied training prepare you to assess student needs, implement interventions and collaborate with educators and families.
The program offers two entry pathways: a five-year pathway for students entering with a bachelor's degree in psychology or a closely related field, and a three-year advanced standing option for certified school psychologists seeking to complete the doctoral degree. A hybrid structure supports professional flexibility while maintaining meaningful interaction with faculty and peers, and every student completes a year-long internship.
Two Pathways, One Doctoral Degree
Students in both pathways meet the coursework requirements for licensure as a psychologist in New Jersey. The five-year pathway also meets requirements for the New Jersey Department of Education School Psychologist Standard Certificate and includes a graduate certificate in Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS).
Program Highlights
The PsyD emphasizes evidence-based assessment, intervention, consultation and collaboration across diverse educational environments. Graduates are prepared to lead and deliver services in PreK–12 schools, hospitals, residential facilities and higher education.
Applied Training in School Settings
Coursework emphasizes applied learning in assessment, intervention, consultation and collaboration within real-world school settings. You'll develop the skills to support the academic, behavioral and social-emotional development of children and adolescents.
A year-long internship lets you complete many of the hours toward the supervised practice requirement for licensure as a psychologist in New Jersey.
See the curriculum |
Pathways, Certification & MTSS
Enter with a bachelor's degree on the five-year pathway, which prepares you for the New Jersey Department of Education School Psychologist Standard Certificate and includes a graduate certificate in Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS).
Certified school psychologists can complete the degree through the three-year advanced standing option, designed for practicing professionals moving into advanced credentials and leadership roles.
Explore the School Psychology Program |
What We'll Cover
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The two entry pathways: five-year bachelor's entry and three-year advanced standing
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Evidence-based assessment, intervention, consultation and collaboration in school settings
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The year-long internship and supervised practice hours toward licensure
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Coursework requirements for licensure as a psychologist in New Jersey
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The New Jersey Department of Education School Psychologist Standard Certificate
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The Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) graduate certificate
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The hybrid course structure and how it supports working professionals
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Career paths and industries, from PreK–12 districts to hospitals and universities
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Admission requirements, the January 15 deadline, the essay and the interview step
Who Should Consider School Psychology?
This program serves two audiences. The five-year pathway is designed for applicants with the equivalent of a U.S. bachelor's degree in psychology, or a minimum of 12 undergraduate credits in psychology including a course in statistics and an experimental or research methodology course; an introductory psychology course does not count toward the 12 credits. The three-year advanced standing option is designed for certified school psychologists who hold a master's degree and can provide a copy of their School Psychologist Certification. Students seeking an F1/J1 visa are not eligible for this program.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
The application deadline is January 15, for fall admission only. Submit the online application and $60 fee, transcripts from each college attended, a resume or CV, two letters of recommendation and a two-page APA-style essay addressing why you want to pursue a doctoral degree in school psychology and why Montclair's program is important to you; the GRE Psychology Subject Test is optional. Applicants who advance past application review complete an admissions interview with program faculty. Review the full School Psychology PsyD program details and application checklist before applying.